Ethical implications

• Socially Sensitive Research - any research that might have direct social consequences for the participants in the research or the group that they represent
• Sieber & Stanley ( 1988 ) produced a paper on the issues related to research that have social consequences. This included problems with the research process & ethical issues in socially sensitive research.
• Problems with the Research Process for socially sensitive research:

  • The research question
  • Conduct of research & treatment of participants
  • The institutional context
  • Interpretation & application of findings
• Problems with the Research Process for socially sensitive research:

  • The research question - may be damaging to members of a particular group by adding scientific credibility to a prevailing prejudice
  • Conduct of research & treatment of participants - confidentiality of information collected
  • The institutional context - data may be misused or misunderstood. Media may misreport findings
  • Interpretation & application of findings - findings may be used for purposes other than originally intended ( e.g. IQ tests were used to identify 'feeble-minded' to be sterilised
• Socially Sensitive Research AO3:

  • ✅ Amplifies marginalised voices - puts a spotlight on vulnerable care - enhances support system
  • ✅ Catalyst for change - ‘being sane in insane places’
  • ❌ Ethical dilemna - tries to balance need for findings against potential harm for pts
  • ❌ Puts vulnerable groups at risk - may lead to stigmatising groups - media may misinterpret
• Socially Sensitive Research AO3:

  • ✅ Amplifies marginalised voices
  • ✅ Catalyst for change
  • ❌ Ethical dilemnas
  • ❌ Puts vulnerable groups at risk